If there’s one thing I love doing with my dog – it’s giving him a big bear hug. What better pet to do this with than a large fluffy dog? The bigger and fluffier, the better. But what are the best fluffy dog breeds that you can cuddle with or embrace in a hug?
There are so many fluffy dog breeds in the canine kingdom, ranging from various sizes and shapes. But in my opinion, the best fluffy dogs are the biggest. And in this case, there are only a handful of big dog breeds that make the cut.
Great Dane
While Great Danes come in other colors besides black, we couldn’t leave them off this list since they’re the tallest dog breed.
A black Great Dane weighing up to 200 pounds is an impressive sight, but unlike many of the other breeds on this list, the Great Dane is generally not aggressive or overly protective.
Great Danes are quite calm with children, although one accidental whack with a paw or a tail could injure a toddler, so be sure to keep that in mind if you’re thinking of bringing one of these gentle giants into your home.
Since the Great Dane has such a lean frame, they eat somewhat less than you would expect, which is a nice benefit for a large dog.
The Great Dane is one of the oldest dog breeds on our list, with pictures of dogs resembling Great Danes going as far back as 3000 BC on Egyptian artifacts.
While they were originally bred to hunt game like boars, their aggressiveness has been bred out of them, making them a friendly family dog.
Sadly, their large size correlates with a short lifespan of only about 7-10 years. Great Danes are also quite prone to bloat, which can cut their life even shorter if it isn’t treated quickly enough.
Best Big and Fluffy Dogs
From the Slovensky Cuvac to the Samoyed and Tornjak, we’ve found plenty of large fur-balls that you’ve probably never heard of. Read on to discover the next big dog breed you’ll want to bring home to cuddle with you and your family.
Highlights: Patient, Docile, Intelligent
The Great Pyrenees is nothing short of “great.” Originating from the Pyrenees Mountain range wedged between Spain and France, the Great Pyrenees depends on its fluffy coat for warmth. They have a thick large coat that makes them ultra-soft and huggable.
Despite their large stature (weighing upwards of 100 pounds), they are famously known for being gentle and calm dogs. And while they are excellent working dogs, the Pyrenees will always enjoy a cuddle and hug every now and then.
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Highlights: Proud, Independent, Cheerful
The Chinese Chow is a big muscular dog with a coat that rivals the fluffiest of breeds. They’ve been here since the days of ancient China and were bred to be the ultimate multi purpose work dog. Chow Chows can guard, hunt and even herd if needed.
But if you’re looking for a fantastic companion dog with enough fluff to cuddle with – they can be that for you too. It’s worth noting that they’re very serious and dignified dogs. And with all the fluff, expect to see some major shedding.
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Highlights: Affectionate, Loyal, Smart
There’s a lot to love about the Golden Retriever – including their fluffy golden coat. After all, there’s a reason why this dog breed is consistently the third most popular in America. And although they will be notorious shedders, the hassle is worth the fluff.
Because they’re such loving dogs, Golden Retriever will definitely enjoy a nice big hug. In fact, owners describe them as giant lap dogs. So if you’re serious about bringing home a big fluffy dog breed, then the Golden Retriever is an obvious choice.
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Highlights: Sweet, Calm, Powerful
The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the biggest, but also fluffiest dog. They may be the breed that fits this category best. Like with most mountain dogs, the Bernese needs a thick fluffy coat to stay warm in the high altitudes of the mountainous regions.
Not all big fluffy breeds are great dogs to hug. However, because of the Berner’s good nature and docile demeanor, they’ll enjoy nothing more than to be embraced by their owners from time to time. Plus, they makes great playmates for children too!
Highlights: Playful, Energetic, Loyal
The Alaskan Malamute may have a relatively short coat. However, this doesn’t mean that they aren’t big or fluffy. This powerful yet energetic spitz type dog originated from the wilderness of Alaska, where night time temperatures reach below freezing.
Though they may be a great dog to give a hug, it’ll be difficult trying to get them to stay still. It’s because Alaskan Malamutes love to play and have a ton of energy. They were bred to be diligent workers so it’s a good idea to tire them out before giving them a hug!
Highlights: Patient, Good-natured, Loyal
The Newfoundland is more like a massive fluffy dog. Weighing upwards of 150 pounds, the Newfie is a surprisingly patient and sweet dog. Like a few other breeds, the Newfoundland does very well with kids – often being called the “ultimate nanny dogs.”
Newfoundlands are great working dogs, but they can also have a calm side. Plus, they are not big on the barking, making them some of the best large apartment dogs. If your kids need a huggable dog, take a long hard look at the Newfoundland.
Highlights: Adaptable, Affectionate, Calm
The Samoyed is the ultimate big fluffy white dog. These dogs come with an elegant solid white “double coat” that’s both thick and fluffy. They’re not as big as the Great Pyrenees, but coming in at roughly 50 lbs make them large dog breeds.
Sammies do shed quite a bit. However, they don’t produce a lot of dander (allergens) from their coats. In other words, they’re kind of like hypoallergenic dogs that shed a lot. And while Samoyeds have calm personalities, the tireless worker in them comes out when needed.
Highlights: Loyal, Brave, Strong-willed
There’s a lot of great things about the Bouvier des Flandres other than their fluffy coats. In fact, they’re one of the sweetest dog breeds to originate from France. With their strong personalities and loyalty, the Bouvier is a dependable companion.
They may have a curly coat, but the fluffiness is still among the best. When you’re done cuddling with a Bouvier, they can double as guard dogs for your home. Plus, they’re some of the best herders and are frequently used in farms all around France.
Highlights: Confident, Gentle, Social
Weighing between 40 and 70 pounds, the Eurasier is a borderline medium or large dog breed. Their thick medium-length coat comes in a variety of different colors – ranging from black, fawn, wolf-sable, and so much more. You’ll have a lot of options.
The best thing about Eurasiers is that they’re 100% loving and loyal to their family and people-oriented dogs. They tend to be very reliable dogs with a sense of confidence. It’s why they make such amazing guard dogs!
Highlights: Brave, Confident, Reserved
The Tibetan Mastiff can be a frightening dog. Even so, they’re one of the fluffiest big dogs in the dogdom thanks to their lion-like mane. With such a furry coat and 150-pound frame, the Tibetan has been said to resemble a cross between a bear and lion.
As much as I would love to hug a Tibetan Mastiff, these dogs are not cheap. In fact, the most expensive dog ever sold was a Tibetan Mastiff. Though it’s not rare to see a purebred Tibetan, they’re definitely one of the fluffiest, biggest dog breeds ever.
Highlights: Loyal, Graceful, Dignified
The Collie is an elegant and majestic dog made popular by pop-culture. As a result, they’re easily one of the most recognizable and beloved breeds in the world. Sitting at 50 to 75 pounds, they’re big dogs with a sturdy frame.
However, not all Collies are fluffy. There are actually two variations of the breed: there’s a Rough Collie and a Smooth Collie. The former is a full-coated Collie with longer hair. These are the ones we consider to be the fluffy Collie.
Highlights: Friendly, Calm, Cheerful
The Leonberger is a massive dog. In fact, some male Leonbergers can reach nearly 200 pounds at their peak! This German dog breed has an ultra-dense coat needed for the harsh winters of the country. And like with any double coat, sheds heavily in the spring.
On the bright side, the Leonberger is one of the fluffiest dog breeds there is. Owners describe their coats as lush and soft. Furthermore, they aren’t aggressive or overly energetic, so getting a daily hug out of a Leonberger is a real possibility.
Highlights: Calm, Adaptable, Smart
The Old English Sheepdog is not your ordinary big fluffy dog breed. They come with a distinct fluffy coat with facial fluff that covers the whole face. If you decide to keep one, there’s a good chance you’ll spend several afternoons lounging around with the dog.
They’re very mellow and calm dogs by nature. As a result, the OES is a fantastic companion for single owners or families. They may seem docile and calm, but they can be deceivingly athletic. Most of the time, they’ll just go with the flow.
Highlights: Loyal, Courageous, Good-natured
The Kuvasz dog is the hardworking breed that few are aware of. Originally bred in Hungary, this brave yet energetic herding dog was also used as guard dogs and companions of the kings. Though they look like a Golden Retriever or Lab, they’re much bigger (up to 100 lbs).
Not only are they big, but they have a thick fluffy coat that helps them adapt to the harsh conditions of Eastern Europe during winter time. They’re stunning, highly intelligent, exceptionally loyal, but can be a little stubborn at times.
Highlights: Charming, Intelligent, Lively
The Bearded Collie looks a little similar to the Old English Sheepdog, except that they tend to be more charismatic. Always bubbly and energetic, the Bearded Collie is a fluffy big dog that would absolutely love to cuddle with its owners.
Beardies are affectionate, but also strong willed. This Scottish dog is the perfect playmate when doing outdoor activities. Rain or shine, the Bearded Collie is always eager to get out and play with the owners. Weighing in at 50 pounds, they can handle pretty much anything.
Black German Shepherd
You’re probably familiar with the typical black and tan coloration of the German Shepherd Dog (GSD), but did you know they also come in all black varieties?
Contrary to popular belief, Black German Shepherds aren’t mutts. They’re actually the result of a recessive gene that affects coat color.
Thanks to the recessive gene, it’s possible for two German Shepherds with normal coloration to produce one or more puppies that are all black.
The German Shepherd is the 2nd-most-common dog in the United States, and for good reason. They are easy to train, intelligent, and friendly to most people, although they will protect their family if they sense a threat.
Since German Shepherds were bred to work, Black German Shepherds need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. A GSD that doesn’t get enough exercise or mental stimulation is likely to become destructive and may even find creative ways to escape your backyard.
German Shepherds are very prone to hip dysplasia and other joint problem, especially if they come from show lines rather than working lines.
Black German Shepherds who come from a line of dogs bred to work rather than trot around a show ring are likely to be the healthiest German Shepherds you can find.
Like always, look for a breeder who does health testing on their breeding dogs to ensure healthy puppies.
FAQ
What are those huge fluffy dogs called?
- 01 of 10. Affenpinscher. Getty Images. …
- 02 of 10. Belgian Sheepdog. Getty Images. …
- 03 of 10. Black Russian Terrier. Getty Images. …
- 04 of 10. Flat-Coated Retriever. Getty Images. …
- 05 of 10. Labrador Retriever. Getty Images. …
- 06 of 10. Newfoundland. Getty Images. …
- 07 of 10. Pug. …
- 08 of 10. Puli.
What is the largest fluffy dog?